Page 18 of The Sheikh's Desert Captive

Rashid's brows furrowed at the sharpness of her response. For a moment, she regretted the harshness of her tone. He didn't deserve that. Not after what he'd just done for her. Maybe the day had taken its toll. Maybe he was right. She was tired and probably wasn't in any fit state to think through what needed to be done next.

"I do not intend to keep you from your family any longer than is necessary," he said evenly.

Nicole sighed and turned away from him. She gazed out across the desert. Her eyes had fully adapted to the night. She'd never seen anything so beautiful before. The sight of the dunes and the vastness of the night sky made her petty concerns feel suddenly small. Maybe Rashid was right. Some rest might well make the difference. Perhaps she'd see things in a clearer light after a few hours sleep.

"We should get moving again," he said.

Nicole turned back to Rashid. "How much farther is it?"

"Not long. We'll be there in an hour or so."

Nicole nodded and followed Rashid back to the horse. Once they were both on the horse, she did as she'd done before, and wrapped her arms around him. This time it felt strangely familiar, even comforting.

Rashid took the reins and turned to look at her. "Everything is going to be fine, Nicole," he told her. "Trust me."

She smiled back at him and nodded. "Looks like I don't have much choice, do I? Let's get going," she said holding onto him.

Then he flicked the reins and, once again, the horse lunged forward into the night.

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